THE Press Association of Jamaica (PAJ) has condemned last Thursday’s assault on Nationwide News reporter Abka Fitz-Henley, allegedly by supporters of the Opposition People’s National Party (PNP), outside Gordon House after the swearing-in ceremony for parliamentarians.

President of the PAJ Dionne Jackson Miller has since written to Opposition Leader Portia Simpson Miller about the matter.

“We are asking for more from the PNP at this time than a statement condemning the behaviour and distancing the leaders of the party from the actions described. We believe that the closeness of the parliamentary majority has generated strong feelings in political supporters on both sides, and while there is an opportunity for extraordinary partnership between our parliamentarians inside Gordon House, there is also the potential for damaging conflict outside,” Jackson Miller said.

Fitz-Henley, who is well-known for his posts on social media, was said to be about to leave Gordon House in downtown Kingston after covering the ceremony when he was attacked.

“Mr Fitz-Henley has reported to us that as he was heading towards his vehicle a group converged around the vehicle shouting abuse at him. Out of an abundance of caution, Mr Fitz-Henley turned to seek police protection to get into his vehicle, at which time he reported that small objects were thrown in his direction, and that what appeared to be a small stone, hit him,” said the PAJ president.

Jackson Miller noted that although Fitz-Henley was not hurt, “incidents such as this are capable of escalation. We are also concerned about the possibility of him being assaulted more seriously, on another occasion, with a less strong security presence”.

She also decried comments on social media which support with the abuse, claiming that it was deserved because of the young journalist’s reporting on political matters.

“We are not suggesting that such behaviour is condoned by the leadership of the PNP, however, we are sure you will agree that such expressions cannot descend into assault and attempts to intimidate,” the PAJ president stated.

She further asserted that the matter calls for a “personal appeal” from Simpson Miller for the PNP’s supporters to allow the media in general,and Fitz-Henley in particular, “to be allowed to work in peace”. She said that it must also be made clear that the party will take action if those who attacked Fitz-Henley are found and identified as party members.